Dolphin Watching & Wildlife Eco-Adventure

Watch and Learn About Irelandís Resident Dolphins in their Natural Habitat

Approximately 200 Bottlenose Dolphins at the Mouth of the Shannon

Underwater Microphone to listen to Dolphin Sounds

Nesting Seabird Colonies, Seals, Stunning Cliffs and Caves

Historic Sites of Interest

Eco-certified Guided Boat Trip

Ireland’s greatest river opens out to the Atlantic Ocean at Carrigaholt, Co. Clare - home to Europe’s largest group of bottlenose dolphins. With approximately 200 individuals here at the Mouth of the Shannon, the dolphin encounter rate with Dolphinwatch is one of the best in the world.

The passenger ship, Draíocht ("Magic"), skippered by Geoff Magee, departs from Carrigaholt Castle Pier to take you on an extraordinary adventure. Geoff’s fascinating commentary keeps you informed throughout the trip. The competent and friendly crew are on board to ensure your comfort, safety and enjoyment.

Watching and learning about the dolphins in their natural habitat is central to the experience, yet every trip is different in this dynamic environment. You might meet a grey seal emerging from a cave, spot a herd of wild goats on a hillside, learn about the many species of nesting seabirds, and delight in the stunning cliffs and caves of the Loop Head Peninsula and the coast of North Kerry.

A family business since 1992, Dolphinwatch is the only marine tourism business to be awarded a gold certification from Ecotourism Ireland. Dolphinwatch achieved the Excellence Award from Trip Advisor, and is one of the BBC Wildlife Magazine's Top Ten Attractions in Ireland.